Raisio names Pekka Kuusniemi new CEO

Finland-based food maker Raisio has appointed Pekka Kuusniemi as its new president and chief executive.

Kuusniemi, the president and CEO of Finland-based bathroom and kitchen supplier Oras Group, will join the Benecol owner in November.

Matti Perkonoja, the chairman of Raisio's board, said: "Pekka Kuusniemi brings with him substantial leadership experience of an international group and of consumer product sales and marketing. His key task at Raisio will be to promote profitable growth in line with the group's strategy in Finland and abroad."

Kuusniemi described Raisio as "a valued brand house with a lot of growth potential". He added: "My strong international experience in business and brand development is a good foundation for leading Raisio's growth story."

Raisio has been without a permanent CEO since January, when Matti Rihko, who had led the business since 2006, resigned. Since then, Jarmo Puputti, who had been the managing director of Raisio's agribusiness arm, has been the company's interim chief executive. Puputti had been in the running for the top job on a permanent basis.

Perkonoja said: "Jarmo Puputti has done a remarkable job in leading the Raisio group over the last few months. He has, for example, determinedly managed the process of Raisio's strategic renewal and I would like to thank him for his contributions."

Asked if Puputti would now leave Raisio, a spokesperson said: "Jarmo will continue as Raisio's interim CEO to the end of October 2017. His future task will be discussed later in the autumn."

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